Method and apparatus for converting a printer firmware download port to a communicatons port

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port are provided. The apparatus includes a printed circuit board arrangement connected to the firmware download port of the printer. A secondary communications port is provided on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer and a central system controller. The printer may include one or more primary communications ports. Each of the one or more primary communications ports may be selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller. The local controller may provide data to the printer via a selected one of the primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher. The central system controller may provide data to the printer via the secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.

This application is a continuation-in-part of commonly owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/365,751, filed on Feb. 28, 2006, which was a continuation-in-part of commonly owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/102,458 filed on Apr. 7, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,099,035, which was a continuation-in-part of commonly owned, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/325,214 filed on Dec. 20, 2002, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,924,903.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to printers, and more particularly to methods for driving a printer in a user terminal. Such printers are particularly well suited for use in gaming machines, vending machines, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, transportation and entertainment ticket machines, and the like.

Ticket printers are useful in a variety of applications. One such application is to print coded tickets or vouchers used in lottery terminals, slot machines and other self-service wagering or transaction (e.g., train, event or airline ticket) apparatus. For purposes of the present disclosure and appended claims, the term “voucher” will be used to mean a printed document, such as a ticket, that has (or potentially has) a meaningful cash value and must be printed using secure technology to prevent counterfeiting. The term “coupon” is used to refer to documents that have at most only a negligible cash value, and which can be printed without the high level of security required for vouchers. It should be appreciated that coupons may be printed using secure technology; however, the level of security will typically be lower than that used in connection with vouchers.

Various printer systems have been proposed for use in self-service terminals, such as for cashless gaming systems used, e.g., at casinos and racetracks. In such systems, a voucher is printed for use by a gaming patron instead of, e.g., tokens, cash, debit cards and credit cards. Such self-service terminals may be controlled, or at least partially controlled, by a Central System Controller (CSC) via a network. The CSC may be situated at the same location as the terminals, or may be remotely located. A remotely located CSC may service different terminal populations at a plurality of facilities (such as different casinos, racetracks, retail lottery establishments, etc.).

A facility that uses the terminals may desire to have the capability for the terminal printers to print items other than the voucher. For example, it may be desired to print coupons for use at the facility. Such coupons may, for example, provide free or discounted food items at the facility. Other types of coupons are also envisioned in order to fulfill e.g., various marketing, advertising, and promotional purposes, such as discounts to future special events, advertising of new products and services, free or discounted parking, hotel room upgrades, travel and entertainment promotions, contest entries, and the like.

In most of the terminals already in the field, there is no way for the facility management to access the printer portion of the terminal to print special coupons that are separate from (and may be unrelated to) the vouchers. In order to provide such a capability, vendors have offered new models of terminals that can print coupons. These new terminals require the use of proprietary software, hardware and/or protocols to enable the terminal printer to print vouchers and coupons. The printing of coupons, when offered, is handled via the secure processing channels used for the vouchers, which vouchers are subject to stricter access control and security requirements. This solution is unacceptable to many facilities because it requires the purchase of new terminals. For a facility that has hundreds of such terminals, such a solution is cost prohibitive.

In the counterpart disclosures from which priority of the present patent application is claimed, a more cost effective way is provided for facilities to print coupons from their terminals. The disclosed system overcomes any need to replace an existing population of terminals. A controller (e.g., a secure controller) that is internal to the terminal (e.g., wagering terminal, POS terminal, or other consumer terminal) is enabled to communicate with the terminal printer to print vouchers, while also allowing a CSC, which is external to the terminal, to communicate with the built-in terminal printer to print coupons and other documents.

The most recent priority application, co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 11/365,751, discloses an invention which provides additional functionality to a peripheral, such as a printer. In particular, the invention disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/365,751 enables downloads, such as updated printer or terminal firmware, to be provided from the CSC or a local computer (e.g., a technician's notebook computer) via a separate port at the peripheral. For example, where the peripheral is a printer, a USB port can be provided in accordance with the invention to accommodate such downloads. A technician can then plug a portable device (e.g., notebook, PDA, tablet computer, flash memory or the like) into the USB port and provide the new software or firmware to the printer.

There are occasions when a printer will have two or more separate ports to accommodate data communication protocols such as RS-232, Netplex, USB or I2C. Each of these protocols is well known in the art, as described in greater detail below. Where it is desired, for example, to provide data to a printer via a Netplex port, and allow new firmware or other data to be downloaded to the printer via a USB port, a mechanism must be provided to switch between the two ports.

Some protocols, such as USB, require specialized and/or dedicated circuitry and cables to be used to reliably communicate signals. The necessary cables to accommodate USB signals may not be provided in existing peripherals, such as printers for a wagering terminal (e.g., slot machine), ticket machine, POS terminal or the like. Since it is desirable to use existing printers rather than replace a population of installed printers with new models, it would be advantageous to provide a means to do so even when the existing printers do not have the necessary cicuitry and cables to support a new protocol, such as USB. For example, existing printers may be configured to receive Netplex, RS-232 and 12C signals, but not USB signals. The invention set forth in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/365,751 allows such printers to also receive USB signals, particularly for the purpose of downloading new firmware over a USB and also provides a way for a signal coming from the USB port to switch the printer to a USB receiving mode, if the printer was previously in another mode of operation, such as Netplex.

The present invention provides additional functionality by enabling a firmware download port on a printer to be used for printer communications, providing, in effect, an additional communications port on the printer. Prior art printers typically have a dedicated firmware download port that is used only for upgrading printer firmware and a dedicated communications port for receiving printer commands. Certain printers, as discussed above in connection with the priority applications, may be provided with two or more communications ports as well as a firmware download port, with the ability to switch between ports depending on the type of communications being received. In each of such printers, only one communications port may be active at a time. It would be advantageous to provide an additional communications port to enable a local controller to communicate with the printer to print a first type of data, while also allowing a central system controller, which is remote from the printer, to communicate with the printer to print a second type of data. It would be further advantageous to enable a firmware download port of such a printer to function as a second communications port.

The present invention provides methods, apparatus and systems with the foregoing and other advantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides methods and apparatus for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port. In an example embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus is provided for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port. The apparatus includes a printed circuit board arrangement connected to the firmware download port of the printer. A secondary communications port is provided on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer and a central system controller.

The printer may include one or more primary communications ports. Each of the one or more primary communications ports may be selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller.

The local controller may provide data to the printer via a selected one of the primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher. The central system controller may provide data to the printer via the secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.

The local controller may provide data in a first format and the central system controller may provide data in a second format. A processor may generate printer commands in a standard format for the printer in response to received data from the local controller and the central system controller.

The first format used by the local controller may comprise one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, IC2, or other format. The second format used by the central system controller may also comprise one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, IC2, or other format.

Communications received at a selected one of the primary communications ports and the secondary communications port may be monitored. Printer availability may be determined when a printer communication is received at one of the ports. If the printer is available, received printer data may be converted into a standard printer format. In the event that the printer is not available, the received printer data may be buffered and subsequently converted into a standard printer format after the printer becomes available.

In the event that communications are simultaneously received via the selected primary communications port and the secondary communications port, preference may be given to a predetermined one of the communications ports. If the printer is not available, the controller from which the communication was received may be notified that the printer is busy. Alternatively, if the printer is not available, the buffered data may be subsequently printed when the printer becomes available, without notifying the controller from which the printer communication was received that the printer was not available when the printer communication was received.

The printed circuit board arrangement may be connected to the firmware download port via at least one of a cabled connection and an optical connection.

The printed circuit board arrangement may comprise a first printed circuit board arranged on a first part of the printer and connected to the firmware download port and a second printed circuit board arranged on a second part of the printer. The second circuit board may carry the secondary communications port. An optical data link may be provided connecting the first and second printed circuit boards.

In addition, an optional cabled connection between the second printed circuit board and the firmware download port may be provided. This optional cabled connection is provided as a backup in the event of a failure of the optical link or in the event the second printed circuit board is relocated to a position where the optical link becomes inoperable.

The printer may be a gaming machine printer, a point of sale terminal printer, a vending machine printer, a transportation ticket machine printer, an entertainment ticket machine printer, or the like. In an example embodiment where the printer comprises a gaming machine printer, the central system controller may include a player tracking system. The local controller may provide data to the printer via a selected one of the primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher and the central system controller may provide data to the printer via the secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.

The first printed circuit board may be arranged in a paper drawer of the printer. The second printed circuit board may be mounted on a rear portion of the printer. For example, the second printed circuit board may be mounted on the rear portion of the printer behind a cover. The cover may comprise a light shield.

The optical link may be disabled when the paper drawer is opened. Further, when the paper drawer is opened, the firmware download port may be enabled to receive downloads. A sensor may be provided for sensing an open position and a closed position of the paper drawer. The sensor may send a signal indicative of the open or closed position for use in deactivating or reactivating the optical data link.

A packet protocol may be used for the data communicated over the optical link.

The secondary communications port may comprise one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port an RS-232 port, a Netplex port, an Ethernet port, an IC2 port, or the like.

An example embodiment of a method for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port may comprise connecting a printed circuit board arrangement to the firmware download port of the printer and providing a secondary communications port on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer and a central system controller.

The present invention also includes additional method embodiments which correspond to the above-described apparatus embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawing figures, wherein like reference numerals denote like elements, and:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a prior art architecture for controlling the printer in a slot machine;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a system architecture in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an example interface implementation in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an another example system architecture embodiment in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example communication flow that can be implemented in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a hardware block diagram of an example implementation in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a software block diagram of an example implementation in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the downloading of new firmware to a peripheral in accordance with an example embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus for converting a firmware download port of a printer to a communications port in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 10 is shows a perspective view of an example embodiment of a printer in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The ensuing detailed description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the ensuing detailed description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an embodiment of the invention. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

The present invention relates to the printing of vouchers and coupons for dispensing to customers. More particularly, the invention relates to an interface for enabling printers to print vouchers in response to commands from a primary controller and to print coupons in response to commands from a secondary controller. Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to the control of a computer peripheral, such as a gaming machine printer or POS terminal printer. In addition, the invention relates to an interface for enabling printers or other peripherals to receive commands in a first protocol, such as Netplex or RS-232, and firmware or other data in a second protocol, such as USB. The peripheral (e.g., printer) can reside in a customer operated terminal such as a gaming machine (e.g., slot machine or lottery terminal), vending machine, self-service ticket terminal, POS terminal, or the like. In a gaming machine implementation, a local controller can be provided that comprises the portion of the gaming machine sometimes referred to as the “game controller.” In such an implementation, a system controller can be provided which comprises the central system controller that is sometimes referred to as the “game management unit.” Typically, the local controller is part of the terminal that provides the customer with vouchers and coupons, and the central system controller is a remote device that is either in the same facility where the terminals are located, or in a different facility that can be located virtually anywhere.

Various well known standards are mentioned herein for use in communicating signals between different elements of the disclosed embodiments. These include the RS-232, USB, Netplex, Ethernet, and I2C standards. RS-232 is a well known standard that provides an interface between data terminal equipment and data communications equipment, in which serial binary data interchange is used. Netplex, a standard developed by International Game Technology of Reno, Nev., USA, provides a multidrop serial communication link between a central system and peripheral devices, and is used to transfer information and allow control of peripherals. Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a connectivity specification developed by the USB Implementers Forum. USB is used to connect peripherals outside a computer in order to eliminate the inconvenience of opening the computer case for installing cards needed for certain devices. Ethernet is a network specification defined by IEEE 802.3 and is used to implement high-speed local area networks (LAN). I2C, or 2-wire communication, is a form of synchronous serial communication that was developed by Phillips Semiconductor.

The interface disclosed herein overcomes the drawbacks of prior art systems that require a proprietary terminal to be purchased to provide both vouchers and coupons. Such a prior art system is shown in FIG. 1, where a terminal printer 10 is provided for printing vouchers and coupons in response to commands from a game controller 14. The game controller 14 provides print commands to printer 10 using a protocol 12 that is compatible with the printer. For example, protocol 12 may comprise one or the other of the RS-232 or Netplex protocols well known in the art of data transmission.

In the prior art embodiment of FIG. 1, the game controller 14 is a proprietary device that is included in the gaming machine. The game controller controls the basic gaming machine hardware, including the printer, coin dispenser, bill acceptor, reels (for a slot machine), etc. and also generates ticket data using a serial number obtained from a central system controller via a system interface 16. The system interface communicates with the central system controller and with the game controller. It obtains the ticket serial numbers from the central system controller and provides these numbers to the game controller. The system interface is also responsible for player tracking, and controls the gaming machine card reader and display.

Each particular manufacturer of such gaming machines will generally have its own game controller technology which is kept secret for security and competitive reasons. Due to the proprietary nature of the game controller which drives the printer, it is not possible for the customer to access the printer directly for the printing of other documents, such as coupons. And, where coupon printing is offered in present day gaming machines, it is only provided via the proprietary game controller, which means the coupons must be generated in association with the gaming machine manufacturer. In particular, where a customer desires a coupon to be printed, the manufacturer of the gaming machine must provide the technology to do so via the game controller 14. This enables the manufacturer to charge additional fees to upgrade current gaming machines, or to require the purchase of new gaming machines with coupon printing capabilities.

At least one gaming machine manufacturer has provided a new model terminal that allows coupon information input at the central system controller to be communicated to the gaming machine system interface 16 via communication path 18. The communication path 18 can comprise, for example, a private network (wired and/or wireless) or the Internet. The system interface 16 will pass the coupon information via path 15 to the proprietary game controller 14, which converts the information as necessary to generate coupon print commands that are provided to the terminal printer 10. Since only the game controller 14 communicates with the printer, there is no way to avoid the use of the proprietary game controller technology to effect the printing of coupons. Thus, the facilities (e.g., casinos) that own the gaming machines are completely dependent on the gaming machine manufacturers to provide the ability to print coupons in addition to the vouchers that the gaming machines are already designed to print.

FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment according to the present invention, wherein coupons can be printed without reliance on the gaming machine manufacturer. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, a printer interface 23 is provided between the system interface 26, game controller 24 and the printer 20. Information from the central system controller (which may optionally include information defining a particular coupon to be printed) is provided to the system interface 26 via communication path 28 (similar to communication path 18 of FIG. 1). The system interface passes the data received from the central system controller to the game controller 24 in a conventional manner, via path 29 (like path 15 in FIG. 1). The conventional data provided as output from the game controller 24 is communicated to the printer interface 23 via path 25 with the normal protocol used by the game controller, e.g., RS-232 or Netplex (“Protocol A”). The information received from the central system controller is also passed from the system interface 26 directly to the printer interface 23 via path 27, according to a suitable protocol such as I2C (“Protocol B”). It should be understood that any of various different protocols can be used to send the printer information from the system interface 26 to the printer interface 23. In fact, one of the advantages of the present invention is that the communication between the system interface 26 and the printer interface 23 is not a proprietary communication, as is the communication between the game controller 24 and the printer interface 23. Thus, while Protocol A will be defined by the game machine manufacturer, Protocol B is not so defined. Protocol B can be any protocol that the system interface 26 is capable of communicating with. By providing a generic printer interface 23, the present invention allows coupon information from the central system controller to be printed without passing through and being subject to the processing requirements of the game controller 24.

Once the printer interface 23 receives data from either game controller 24 (e.g., voucher information) or system interface 26 (e.g., coupon information), it determines whether the printer 20 is available, and if so, processes the received data for communication to the printer 20 in a proper format. The properly formatted data is then sent to the printer via path 22, using the protocol (e.g., RS-232) that the printer 20 is designed to receive. The operation of the printer interface 23 is explained in greater detail hereinafter in connection with FIG. 5.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware and software/firmware components of the printer interface 23. A processor 30 processes data received from the game controller 24 and the system interface 26 via respective drivers 33, 34 and/or 35. Driver 33 is, for example, a Netplex driver configured to receive data formatted using the Netplex protocol from the game controller. Such data may comprise, for example, data necessary to print a voucher. Alternatively, the game controller may be configured to provide voucher data using the RS-232 protocol, in which case data will be received by and passed to the processor 30 using RS-232 drivers 34. Coupon data is provided to the processor 30 from the central system controller via the system interface 26 using, e.g., an I2C protocol. The I2C driver 35 processes the coupon data from the system interface and passes it on to the processor 30.

Software and/or firmware that instructs the processor 30 how to decode and convert the data received from the game controller 24 and system interface 26 to the format required by the printer 20 is stored in one or more of EEPROM 36 and flash memory 31. SDRAM 32 is provided for storage of interim values computed by processor 30 as well as other temporary information as is well known in the art. Once the voucher or coupon information is decoded and converted to the proper format for printing, it is communicated to the printer via RS-232 drivers 34. Prior to being communicated to the printer, the print data can be temporarily stored in SDRAM 32.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an alternate embodiment where the printer interface 23 is incorporated within a terminal printer 40. In particular, all of the elements illustrated in FIG. 3 can be built into terminal printer 40. Such an embodiment is an economical alternative to providing a separate printer interface as shown in FIG. 2, since the printer controller already present in the printer can provide many (if not all) of the functionality provided by printer interface processor 30. Memory already present in the printer can also be shared to accommodate the needs of the printer interface. Such an implementation eliminates the need for two separate processors and additional memory.

As shown in FIG. 4, all communications between the game controller 24 and system interface 26 discussed in connection with FIG. 2 are now passed directly to the terminal printer 40. The functions of printer interface 23 and communication path 22 will be performed by equivalent elements that are integrated with the printer 40 itself.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the communication flow for the printer interface 23. It is noted that the communication flow illustrated is an example of one possible implementation of the printer interface 23, and that other implementations are possible and within the intended scope of the invention.

The routine of FIG. 5 starts at box 50. At box 52, the communication ports from the game controller and system interface are monitored for a communication event. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the printer interface 23 monitors communications from the game controller 24 via path 25. Similarly, communications from the system interface 26 are monitored via path 27. If a communication event (e.g., a message for the printer) is detected at box 54, the communication source (game controller or system interface) will be determined at box 56.

Upon determining that a printer message has arrived from the system interface, the message is directed from box 56 to box 58, where a determination is made as to whether the printer is available to print a coupon received from the central system controller. If not, a busy status signal is sent to the system interface so that it can send the message again later (box 60). Alternatively, the printer message can be buffered (either in its original format or in a decoded format) for subsequent printing when the printer becomes available. In such a case, a busy signal may or may not be sent to the system interface, depending on the desired implementation. The routine then continues to monitor the communication ports as indicated at box 52.

If it is determined at box 58 that the printer is available to print a coupon, the coupon data from the system interface is received (box 62), decoded (box 64), and converted to a standard printer data stream (box 66). The standard printer data stream is formatted for the particular printer that is going to print the coupon (e.g., terminal printer 20 of FIG. 2 or terminal printer 40 of FIG. 4). Although different printers can be provided to print coupons and vouchers, the preferred embodiment is to use the same printer for both. After the coupon information is converted to the standard printer data stream as indicated at box 66, it is forwarded to the printer for printing of the coupon (box 80). The routine then returns to box 52, where the communication ports continue to be monitored.

In the event that a communication event is detected from the game controller, this fact is determined at boxes 54 and 56, and at box 70 a determination is made as to whether the printer is available to print a voucher. If not, a busy status is sent to the game controller (box 72) and the routine returns to box 52 for continued monitoring of the communication ports. Alternatively, when the printer is not available, the voucher data can be buffered (either in its original format or in a decoded format) for subsequent printing when the printer becomes available. In such a case, a busy signal may or may not be sent to the game controller, depending on the desired implementation. For example, it might be advantageous to keep the implementation transparent to the game controller by not sending a busy signal back to the controller. If the printer is determined to be available at box 70, the game controller data is received at box 74, decoded at box 76, and converted to a standard printer data stream at box 78. The standard printer data stream, formatted for the printer, is passed on to the printer for printing of the voucher, as indicated at box 80. The routine then loops back to box 52 for continued monitoring of the communication ports.

The standard printer data stream will be formatted according to the protocol needed by the particular printer used. For example (and as shown in FIG. 3), the printer data stream may be in the RS-232 format. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other formats can be used, such as I2C, Netplex, or USB. New printer formats can be accommodated as they are developed, by providing the appropriate driver in the printer interface.

FIG. 6 is a hardware block diagram of a system in accordance with the present invention, in which data received in either a Netplex format or a USB format can be selectively provided to a printer processor 100 via a multiplexer (MUX) 102. The printer processor 100 is used to control a printer to carry out its printing functions. It is also used in connection with the present invention to facilitate the downloading of new firmware into printer flash memory 31. Processor 100 has both an I2C port and a serial port. The serial port can, for example, comply with the RS-232 serial communication protocol. SDRAM 32 is provided for storage of interim values computed by processor 100 as well as other temporary information as well known in the art.

Netplex data is received by the Netplex driver 33, and output as Netplex serial data to one input port of MUX 102. The other input port of MUX 102 receives RS-232 serial data from RS-232 interface 34. This RS-232 data can actually be data that is received as USB data, and be intended for downloading into flash memory 31 of the printer. After the USB data to be downloaded is received at USB processor 104, the USB processor converts it to RS-232 data so that it can be carried over a conventional serial data path (e.g., ribbon cable) to the serial port of printer processor 100. Conversion of the USB data is straightforward, and consists of stripping the substantive data packets from the overhead and other information carried in the USB data stream. Then, the data packets are repackaged in accordance with the RS-232 protocol, as well known in the art.

In one scenario, a technician will arrive at a gaming terminal or the like with a portable device, such as a notebook computer. The technician will connect the USB output from his portable device to a USB port coupled to the USB Processor 104. The USB data stream, which may contain updated firmware for the printer, will be received by the USB processor 104 and the data packets will be repackaged into RS-232 format. A portion of the USB data will comprise a command that is recognized by the USB Processor as a command intended to switch the MUX 102 to deliver the RS-232 data from RS-232 interface 34 to the serial port of printer processor 100. This command is sent by the USB processor to the I2C port of the printer processor 100 via memory 36 (e.g., EEPROM). Memory 36 is shared between the USB processor 104 and the printer processor. In response to the command, printer processor 100 will generate a MUX control signal which is provided to a switching input of MUX 102. If MUX 102 is currently providing the Netplex serial data from Netplex driver 33 to the serial port of printer processor 100, the MUX control signal will cause the MUX to instead commence output of the RS-232 serial data from RS-232 interface 34, thereby providing the RS-232 serial data to the serial port of printer processor 100. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, in the illustrated embodiment, USB processor 104 acts as a master processor, and shared memory 36 as well as printer processor 100 act as slaves to the USB processor.

In operation, printer processor 100 will control all of the various functions of a printer, including printing, paper advance, start, stop, pause, jam detection, low or no paper detection, low ink detection, user interface indicators, etc. From time to time, it may be desired to change or add to this functionality by loading new printer firmware. The loading of new firmware is facilitated in accordance with the present invention by allowing a technician (or remote device) to connect to the USB port of USB processor 104 in order to provide the new firmware, which is then converted to serial data in a format that can be communicated to the printer processor over existing data paths (e.g., a ribbon cable). By providing two processors 100 and 104 with a shared memory 36, it is possible to use the existing I2C port of the printer processor to receive the command that directs the system to start sending converted USB data instead of the Netplex data to the printer processor serial port. In this manner, the USB signal effectively tells the system to switch to a mode where the USB data (converted into RS-232 serial data) is communicated to the printer processor. It is noted that although the invention is described in the context of Netplex and USB input data streams, virtually any other type of data streams currently known or developed in the future can be substituted therefor without departing from the teachings of the invention. Moreover, while the illustrated embodiment shows the use of the invention in connection with a printer, other computer peripherals that rely on firmware (which can be updated in accordance with the invention) can be supported as well.

FIG. 7 is a software block diagram illustrating the software components of one possible implementation of the present invention. This diagram is not meant to limit the scope of the disclosure, as many other implementations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the teachings of the invention.

The software implementation illustrated in FIG. 7 includes a printer module 112 and a USB controller module 140. The printer module 112 is run in the printer processor 100 of FIG. 6. The USB controller module 140 is run in the USB Processor 104 of FIG. 6. Printer module 112 includes a kernel 114 and print task functional code 116. Also included is the MUX control code 118, serial port code 120, Netplex and converted USB serial data drivers 122, 124, respectively, the shared memory driver 126 and an I2C driver 128. The MUX control code 118 provides the MUX control signal that switches multiplexer 102 to output either the Netplex formatted data or the converted serial USB data to the serial port of the printer processor 100.

The USB controller module 140 includes a Kernel 142, a USB to serial driver 144, an I2C driver 146, serial driver 148 and USB driver 150. The USB to serial driver 144 is responsible for converting the USB data stream input to USB driver 150 into serial data (e.g., RS-232) that can be communicated via serial driver 148 to the printer processor serial driver 120 via MUX 102. As noted above, by converting the USB data stream into a conventional serial data stream, such as RS-232, the need for special USB cables in the signal path is avoided. The I2C driver 146 provides the command signal retrieved from the USB data stream to the shared memory (EEPROM) 36, which in turn provides the command signal to the printer processor via the I2C port. As previously set forth, the command signal is used to switch MUX 102 from the Netplex mode to the serial USB mode, and vice-versa.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing how a download of new firmware can be accomplished via the USB port. After the routine starts, a determination is made at box 160 as to whether a USB download is to be initiated. If not, the routine simply continues to loop back until a download is to be initiated. Once a download is initiated, the USB controller writes the command message to the shared memory (EEPROM 36) via the I2C data path, as shown at box 162. The printer then recognizes the command message in the shared memory (box 164). In response to the command message, the printer generates the necessary MUX control signal to switch the MUX 102 to output the converted serial USB data if the MUX is currently in the Netplex mode (box 166). The printer processor then receives the converted serial USB data (e.g., in RS-232 format) from the MUX, and loads the received data (e.g., updated firmware) into printer flash memory 31 (box 168). At box 170, the printer executes the updated firmware firmware. In response to the firmware instructions, the printer controls the MUX 102 to either continue providing converted USB serial data at its output, or to switch and provide the Netplex formatted data at the MUX output. The routine then returns to the starting point so that the system is ready to initiate another USB download if and when commanded to do so, e.g., by a technician hooking a notebook computer containing new firmware to the system USB port.

Hardware for implementing the present invention is readily available. For example, the printer processor 100 can comprise the MCF5249 Coldfire™ microprocessor available from Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. (www.freescale.com). This microprocessor includes both I2C and serial data ports. The USB processor 104 can comprise the CY7C68013A EZ-USB™ microcontroller available from Cypress Semiconductor Corporation (www.cypress.com).

The interface can be used, inter alia, for controlling a printer or other peripheral and updating the firmware or software therein. The peripheral (e.g., printer) can reside, for example, in a gaming machine, POS terminal, or in any other such device. In an illustrated embodiment, a first port receives data in a first format according to a corresponding protocol, such as Netplex or RS-232. A second port receives data in a second format according to another protocol, such as USB. Separate printer and USB processors are provided. In the illustrated embodiment, the USB processor is the master processor, and the printer processor is the slave. A shared memory is provided, so that a command from the USB processor can be given to the printer processor over a port, such as in I2C port, separate from the port on which serial data is provided. Since USB data cannot usually be provided over the data paths (e.g., ribbon cable) provided in existing systems, the USB processor converts received USB data into RS-232 serial data or the like. A multiplexer is indirectly controlled by a command in the USB data. In particular, the command is provided from the USB processor, via the shared memory, to the separate port of the printer processor. The printer processor then generates a MUX control signal for switching the MUX to provide the converted serial USB data to the printer processor serial port instead of providing, for example, the Netplex formatted data to the printer processor serial port.

The present invention also provides methods and apparatus for converting a dedicated firmware download port on a printer to a communications port. In an example embodiment of the present invention as shown in FIG. 9, an apparatus is provided for converting a firmware download port on a printer 900 to a communications port. The apparatus includes a printed circuit board arrangement (e.g., first printed circuit board 901 and second printed circuit board 902) connected to the firmware download port 903 of the printer 900. A secondary communications port 904 is provided on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer 900 and a central system controller 905.

The printer 900 may include one or more primary communications ports, such as primary communications ports 907 and 908 on host interface 906. Each of the one or more primary communications ports may be selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller 24. For example, the printer may include an I2C port and a serial port as discussed above in connection with FIGS. 6-8.

The local controller 24 may provide data to the printer 900 via a selected one of the primary communications ports 907, 908 indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher. The central system controller 905 may provide data to the printer 900 via the secondary communications port 904 indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.

The local controller 24 and the central system controller 905 may provide data in the same or different formats. For example, the local controller 24 and the central system controller 905 may provide data in one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, I2C, or other format. A processor 910 may generate printer commands in a standard format for the printer 900 in response to received data from the local controller 24 and the central system controller 905.

Communications received at a selected one of the primary communications ports 907, 908 and the secondary communications port 904 may be monitored. The monitoring process is similar to that discussed above in connection with FIG. 5. Printer availability may be determined when a printer communication is received at one of the ports 904, 907, and 908. If the printer 900 is available, received printer data may be converted at the processor 910 into a standard printer format. In the event that the printer is not available, the received printer data may be buffered (e.g., in a suitable print buffer provided in the printer 900) and subsequently converted into a standard printer format at processor 910 after the printer 900 becomes available.

In the event that communications are simultaneously received via the selected primary communications port (e.g., one of port 907 or 908) and the secondary communications port 904, preference may be given to a predetermined one of the communications ports. If the printer 900 is not available, the controller from which the communication was received (one of system controller 905 or local controller 24) may be notified that the printer 900 is busy. Alternatively, if the printer 900 is not available, the buffered data may be subsequently printed when the printer 900 becomes available, without notifying the controller from which the printer communication was received that the printer 900 was not available when the printer communication was received.

The printed circuit board arrangement (901, 902) may be connected to the firmware download port 903 via at least one of a cabled connection 911 and an optical connection 912.

The printed circuit board arrangement may comprise a first printed circuit board 901 which may be arranged on a first part (e.g., moveable printer chassis 913) of the printer 900 and connected to the firmware download port 903 and a second printed circuit board 902 which may be arranged on a second part (e.g., stationary printer chassis 914) of the printer 900. The second circuit board 902 may carry the secondary communications port 904. An optical data link 912 may be provided connecting the first and second printed circuit boards 901, 902.

In addition, an optional cabled connection 915 between the second printed circuit board 902 and the firmware download port 903 may be provided. This optional cabled connection 915 is provided as a backup in the event of a failure of the optical link 912 or in the event the second printed circuit board 902 is relocated to a position where the optical link becomes inoperable.

The host interface 906 may be provided on the stationary printer chassis 914 and connected to the main printer controller 909 on the moveable printer chassis 913 via a flexible cable 930, which may be a flexible ribbon cable, a coiled cable, or other type of flexible cable.

The printer 900 may be a gaming machine printer, a point of sale terminal printer, a vending machine printer, a transportation ticket machine printer, an entertainment ticket machine printer, or the like. In an example embodiment where the printer 900 comprises a gaming machine printer, the central system controller 905 may include a player tracking system 916 for tracking the game play of individual players. The local controller 24 may provide data to the printer 900 via a selected one of the primary communications ports 907, 908 indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher and the central system controller 905 may provide data to the printer 900 via the secondary communications port 904 indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon. The coupons may be provided based on information obtained by the player tracking system 916.

As shown in FIG. 10, the first printed circuit board 901 may be arranged in a paper drawer 917 of the printer 900. The second printed circuit board 902 may be mounted on a rear portion of the printer 900. For example, the second printed circuit board 902 may be mounted on the rear portion of the printer 900 behind a cover 918. The cover 918 may comprise a light shield.

The optical link 912 may be disabled when the paper drawer 917 is opened. Further, when the paper drawer 917 is opened, the firmware download port 903 may be enabled to receive downloads. A sensor 920 (FIG. 9) may be provided for sensing an open position and a closed position of the paper drawer 917. The sensor 920 may send a signal indicative of the open or closed position for use in deactivating or reactivating the optical data link 912.

A packet protocol may be used for the data communicated over the optical link 912.

The secondary communications port 904 may comprise one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port an RS-232 port, a Netplex port, an Ethernet port, an IC2 port, or the like.

An example embodiment of a method for converting a firmware download port 903 on a printer 900 to a communications port may comprise connecting a printed circuit board arrangement 901, 902 to the firmware download port of the printer and providing a secondary communications port 904 on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer 900 and a central system controller 905.

Those skilled in the art should appreciate that the various elements shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 may be arranged differently without deviating from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, one or more of the download port 903, the main printer controller 909, and the first printed circuit board 901 may be arranged on the stationary printer chassis 914 while one or more of the host interface 906 and the second printed circuit board 902 may be located on the moveable printer chassis 913. Further, the download port 903 may be separate from the main printer controller 909, rather than integral with it as shown in FIG. 9. Other possible arrangements of the elements can be imagined by one skilled in the art, and the present invention is not limited by the arrangements shown in the Figures.

Although the invention has been described in connection with various specific embodiments, it should be appreciated that numerous adaptations and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the intended scope of the invention as set forth in the claims. 

1. Apparatus for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port, comprising: a printed circuit board arrangement connected to the firmware download port of said printer; and a secondary communications port provided on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer and a central system controller.
 2. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein: said printer includes one or more primary communications ports; and each of said one or more primary communications ports is selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller.
 3. Apparatus in accordance with claim 2, wherein: said local controller provides data to the printer via a selected one of said primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher; and said central system controller provides data to the printer via said secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.
 4. Apparatus in accordance with claim 2, wherein; said local controller provides data in a first format; said central system controller provides data in a second format; and a processor generates printer commands in a standard format for said printer in response to received data from said local controller and said central system controller.
 5. Apparatus in accordance with claim 4, wherein: said first format comprises one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, or IC2 format; and said second format comprises one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, or IC2 format.
 6. Apparatus in accordance with claim 2, wherein: communications received at a selected one of said primary communications ports and said secondary communications port are monitored; printer availability is determined when a printer communication is received at one of said ports, and: (i) if the printer is available, received printer data is converted into a standard printer format; (ii) if the printer is not available, the received printer data is buffered and subsequently converted into the standard printer format after the printer becomes available.
 7. Apparatus in accordance with claim 6, wherein: if communications are simultaneously received via said selected primary communications port and said secondary communications port, preference is given to a predetermined one of said communications ports.
 8. Apparatus in accordance with claim 6, wherein: if the printer is not available, the controller from which the communication was received is notified that the printer is busy.
 9. Apparatus in accordance with claim 6, wherein if the printer is not available, said buffered data is subsequently printed when the printer becomes available, without notifying the controller from which the printer communication was received that the printer was not available when the printer communication was received.
 10. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein: said printed circuit board arrangement is connected to said firmware download port via at least one of a cabled connection and an optical connection.
 11. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said printed circuit board arrangement comprises: a first printed circuit board arranged on a first part of said printer and connected to the firmware download port; a second printed circuit board arranged on a second part of said printer, said second circuit board carrying said secondary communications port; and an optical data link connecting the first and second printed circuit boards.
 12. Apparatus in accordance with claim 11, further comprising: a cabled connection between said second printed circuit board and said firmware download port.
 13. Apparatus in accordance with claim 11, wherein: said printer includes one or more primary communications ports; and each of said one or more primary communications ports is selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller.
 14. Apparatus in accordance with claim 13, wherein: said printer is a gaming machine printer.
 15. Apparatus in accordance with claim 14, wherein: said central system controller includes a player tracking system.
 16. Apparatus in accordance with claim 13, wherein: said local controller provides data to the printer via a selected one of said primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher; and said central system controller provides data to the printer via said secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.
 17. Apparatus in accordance with claim 11, wherein: said first printed circuit board is arranged in a paper drawer of said printer; and said second printed circuit board is mounted on a rear portion of said printer.
 18. Apparatus in accordance with claim 17, wherein: said second printed circuit board is mounted on said rear portion of said printer behind a cover; and said cover comprises a light shield.
 19. Apparatus in accordance with claim 17, wherein: the optical link is disabled when said paper drawer is opened; and when said paper drawer is opened, said firmware download port is enabled to receive downloads.
 20. Apparatus in accordance with claim 19, further comprising: a sensor for sensing an open position and a closed position of said paper drawer and sending a signal indicative of said open or closed position for use in deactivating or reactivating said optical data link.
 21. Apparatus in accordance with claim 11, wherein: a packet protocol is used for said data communicated over said optical link.
 22. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein: said secondary communications port comprises one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port an RS-232 port, a Netplex port, an Ethernet port, or an IC2 port.
 23. Apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said printer is one of a gaming machine printer, a point of sale terminal printer, a vending machine printer, a transportation ticket machine printer, and an entertainment ticket machine printer.
 24. A method for converting a firmware download port on a printer to a communications port, comprising: connecting a printed circuit board arrangement to the firmware download port of said printer; and providing a secondary communications port on the printed circuit board arrangement for enabling communications between the printer and a central system controller.
 25. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein: said printer includes one or more primary communications ports; and each of said one or more primary communications ports is selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller.
 26. A method in accordance with claim 25, wherein: said local controller provides data to the printer via a selected one of said primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher; and said central system controller provides data to the printer via said secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.
 27. A method in accordance with claim 25, wherein; said local controller provides data in a first format; said central system controller provides data in a second format; and a processor generates printer commands in a standard format for said printer in response to received data from said local controller and said central system controller.
 28. A method in accordance with claim 27, wherein: said first format comprises one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, or IC2 format; and said second format comprises one of an RS-232, Netplex, USB, Ethernet, or IC2 format.
 29. A method in accordance with claim 25, further comprising: monitoring communications received at a selected one of said primary communications ports and said secondary communications port; determining printer availability when a printer communication is received at one of said ports, and: (i) if the printer is available, converting received printer data into a standard printer format; (ii) if the printer is not available, buffering the received printer data and subsequently converting said buffered data into the standard printer format after the printer becomes available; and continuing to monitor said communications.
 30. A method in accordance with claim 29, further comprising: giving a preference to a predetermined one of said communication ports if communications are simultaneously received via said selected primary communications port and said secondary communications port.
 31. A method in accordance with claim 29, wherein: if the printer is not available, notifying the controller from which the communication was received that the printer is busy.
 32. A method in accordance with claim 29, wherein if the printer is not available, said buffered data is subsequently printed when the printer becomes available, without notifying the controller from which the printer communication was received that the printer was not available when the printer communication was received.
 33. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein: said printed circuit board arrangement is connected to said firmware download port via at least one of a cabled connection and an optical connection.
 34. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein said printed circuit board arrangement comprises: a first printed circuit board arranged on a first part of said printer and connected to the firmware download port; a second printed circuit board arranged on a second part of said printer, said second circuit board carrying said secondary communications port; and an optical data link connecting the first and second printed circuit boards.
 35. A method in accordance with claim 34, further comprising: a cabled connection between said second printed circuit board and said firmware download port.
 36. A universal interface in accordance with claim 34, wherein: said printer includes one or more primary communications ports; and each of said one or more primary communications ports is selectable for enabling communications between the printer and a local controller.
 37. A universal interface in accordance with claim 36, wherein: said printer is a gaming machine printer.
 38. A universal interface in accordance with claim 37, wherein: said central system controller includes a player tracking system.
 39. A method in accordance with claim 36, wherein: said local controller provides data to the printer via a selected one of said primary communications ports indicative of cash information to be printed on a voucher; and said central system controller provides data to the printer via said secondary communications port indicative of non-cash data to be printed on a coupon.
 40. A method in accordance with claim 34, wherein: said first printed circuit board is arranged in a paper drawer of said printer; and said second printed circuit board is mounted on a rear portion of said printer.
 41. A method in accordance with claim 40, wherein: said second printed circuit board is mounted on said rear portion of said printer behind a cover; and said cover comprises a light shield.
 42. A method in accordance with claim 40, wherein: the optical link is disabled when said paper drawer is opened; and when said paper drawer is opened, said firmware download port is enabled to receive downloads.
 43. A method in accordance with claim 42, further comprising: a sensor for sensing an open position and a closed position of said paper drawer and sending a signal indicative of said open or closed position for use in deactivating or reactivating said optical data link.
 44. A method in accordance with claim 34, wherein: a packet protocol is used for said data communicated over said optical link.
 45. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein: said secondary communications port comprises one of a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port an RS-232 port, a Netplex port, an Ethernet port, or an IC2 port.
 46. A method in accordance with claim 24, wherein said printer is one of a gaming machine printer, a point of sale terminal printer, a vending machine printer, a transportation ticket machine printer, and an entertainment ticket machine printer. 